Tesla Model Y Juniper US Sighting Again, Following Launch in China
Tesla has officially rolled out its refreshed Model Y “Juniper” in China, sending ripples of excitement throughout the EV world. As enthusiasts eagerly await its North American debut, another Model Y “Juniper” was recently spotted cruising through California.
In a video shared by X user Teslaconomics on Sunday, a covered Model Y was seen driving through Santa Clara, California, just days after the vehicle’s official launch in China. The wraps concealing the front and rear bumpers serve to hide the newly redesigned headlights and taillights, even though these changes were revealed during the launch event.
This latest sighting adds to the growing list of U.S. sightings of the refreshed Model Y, with this one marking the first appearance since its global debut in China. Considering Tesla’s engineering hub in Palo Alto and its Fremont factory, it’s not entirely unexpected to see the vehicle in the Bay Area. However, the appearance raises further questions about when Tesla plans to release the updated Model Y in the U.S.
What caught the attention of many was Tesla’s decision to continue covering the vehicle despite the design already being made public. A fully revealed version of the Model Y in the U.S. would certainly cause a stir, which could explain why the company has opted to keep it under wraps for now.
In the lead-up to Tesla’s highly anticipated China launch, multiple covered Model Y vehicles were spotted around the Bay Area. The latest sighting took place in Hayward, California, just a few days before the new year kicked off. The footage and photos from this encounter unveiled some fascinating details: a red light bar spanning the rear, which had previously been the subject of speculation, and faint hints of the front light bar as well. What was once cloaked in mystery has now been officially revealed, adding to the growing excitement surrounding the vehicle’s refreshed design.
Just a week before the Hayward sighting, another camouflaged Tesla Model Y was spotted cruising through San Mateo, once again wrapped in the familiar coverings. The windows were heavily tinted, keeping the interior hidden from view. Prior to that, a refreshed Model Y was seen in San Jose, fueling speculation that it could feature the much-discussed red light bar.
Though these covered vehicles have been spotted since as far back as August, the frequency of sightings has notably increased in the past few weeks, intensifying excitement as the official reveal edges closer.
When will Tesla launch the new Model Y in the U.S. and Canada?
Tesla has officially launched its refreshed Model Y, codenamed “Juniper,” in North America. Deliveries commenced in March 2025, with the Launch Series Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variant priced at USD 59,990 in the U.S. In Canada, the Launch Series AWD is available for CA$ 84,990.
Following the initial launch, Tesla introduced a more affordable Long Range AWD variant in April 2025, priced at USD 48,990 in the U.S. and CA$ 69,990 in Canada. This variant offers several enhancements, including improved aerodynamics, a new 16-speaker sound system, a rear touchscreen, and ventilated front seats. It also boasts an estimated range of 320 miles per charge.
As of now, the Long Range AWD is the only variant available in North America. Tesla has not yet released the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Performance trims in these markets.
In summary, Tesla’s refreshed Model Y Juniper is now available in the U.S. and Canada, with deliveries having begun in March 2025. The Launch Series variant was initially offered, followed by the introduction of the more affordable Long Range AWD variant in April 2025. Further variants, such as the RWD and Performance trims, have not yet been released in these markets.
